Dental Assistant

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Taking digital x-rays with the use of snap-a-ray sensor holders
• Review patient medical history
• Take blood pressure and pulse
• Work closely with the infection control officer to develop infection control protocol
• Preparing and sterilizing instruments and dental equipment
• Ensure patients feel comfortable before, during and after dental treatment
• Ensure patient receives written instructions for care following dental surgery or other dental treatment procedures
• Apply topical drugs prescribed by a dentist
• Take impressions of patients’ teeth for study casts
• Assisting with the supply order as needed, by communicating with the office manager or dental supplier
• Communicating with the dentist and patient to schedule follow up appointments
• Place or remove celluloid, plastic or metallic strips between teeth for subsequent placement or filling by the dentist
• Place or remove rubber dam under supervision of a dentist
• Provide suction/evacuation function
• Avoid other assigned duties

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Must effectively communicate in English orally and in writing.
• Must possess a valid dental assisting permit from the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry
• Must have X-ray certification
• Must be able to obtain Nitrous certification within 6 months of hire
• Coronial polishing and Fluoride application certification preferred
• Sealant application certification preferred
• Must possess a valid Healthcare Provider CPR certification.
• Experience working with the homeless and underserved population is preferred.
• Clearance of background check and drug screen. This is a Safety Sensitive Position for purposes of the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Act.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Thorough knowledge of dental office and chair-side dental assisting practices, procedures and techniques.
• Considerable knowledge of dental terminology and charting practices.
• Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of dental health promotion and prevention.
• Some knowledge of Federal and OSHA regulations for dental clinics.
• Intermediate computer skills with knowledge of Eaglesoft software and digital x-rays preferred
• Requires ability to work independently as well as with a team
• Ability to effectively communicate in English orally and in writing.
• Ability to respect and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to be culturally sensitive to the needs of the medically indigent.
• Ability to respond to new client needs.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic clinical environment and to handle multiple demands and responsibilities.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• The work requires lifting of supply boxes in the medium range (up to 30 lbs.)
• The majority of time spent in this position is in a well-lighted, heated and/or air-conditioned indoor office setting with adequate ventilation
• Work very near other people and have little space between self and others
• May risk exposure to radiation
• May risk exposure to biohazards and communicable diseases
• May be placed in conflict situations in which others may be rude or unpleasant
• Work is performed walking or standing much of the time
• Occasional periods of high stress